Dwarf Cherry
Prunus pumila
Last reviewed: July 2026
Prunus pumila (Dwarf Cherry) is a native shrub found across northern and western states that produces white flowers in May and June. This low-maintenance plant thrives in full sun with minimal water requirements.
Dwarf Cherry is toxic to dogs and cats.
Listed as toxic by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (opens in new tab) (last reviewed 2026-05-21). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435and your veterinarian's emergency line.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants so you can choose a pet-safe native alternative for your yard.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Dwarf Cherry as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
low
Size
12"–48" H × 12"–60" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
CO, IA, IL, IN and 21 more states
Pollinators
bees, beetles
Sand cherry is a low-growing native shrub that produces clusters of white flowers in late spring followed by small dark cherries. This hardy plant spreads naturally to form colonies and tolerates poor soils and drought conditions well.
Growing Dwarf Cherry
Grow Dwarf Cherry in full sun and low water. Mature plants reach 12 to 48 inches tall and spread 12 to 60 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Dwarf Cherry is an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement. Maintenance level: moderate. Tidiness: 3 out of 5.
Works well in: foundation, mid zone.
- Spreads by suckers and can look irregular
- May appear sparse in winter
- Requires pruning to maintain shape
Wildlife value
The flowers attract bees and beetles in May and June, while the small cherries provide food for birds and small mammals.
Common questions
- Where is Prunus pumila naturally found?
- Dwarf Cherry is native to 25 states across the northern United States, from Maine to Montana and south to Colorado, Tennessee, and Virginia.
- When does Dwarf Cherry bloom?
- Prunus pumila typically blooms in May and June, producing clusters of small white flowers that attract various pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Dwarf Cherry?
- The flowers of Prunus pumila are visited by bees and beetles, which help with pollination and fruit development.
- What growing conditions does Dwarf Cherry prefer?
- This native shrub performs best in full sun locations with well-draining soil and can tolerate drought conditions once established.
- Is Dwarf Cherry toxic to dogs?
- Yes. Dwarf Cherry is listed as toxic to dogs by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your pet has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Dwarf Cherry toxic to cats?
- Yes. Dwarf Cherry is listed as toxic to cats by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (aspca.org). If your cat has been exposed, call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.
- Is Dwarf Cherry toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Dwarf Cherry as toxic to livestock.
- Is Dwarf Cherry HOA-friendly?
- Dwarf Cherry is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with moderate maintenance.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Pollinator Patch flags toxic plants like Dwarf Cherry and shows pet-safe natives for your ecoregion instead.
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